On August 26, 2023, a delegation representing the Israelite Board of Rabbis and led by Rabbi Sholomo Levy and Rabbi Eliyahu LaPrince embarked on a journey that would take them to the heart of the nation’s capital, Washington, D.C. Just as previous warriors for justice converged on that spot 60 years ago when Dr. Martin Luther King delivered his “ I Have a Dream Speech,” they marched to signify that the struggle for justice, peace, and brothers continues in this generation.
The night before the march, they attended a Shabbat dinner with their wives, Rayah Levy and Shelly La Prince, and their sons Levi and Elijah, respectively. The dinner took place at the Hilton Hotel and was sponsored by the Anti-Defamation League (ADL). They were greeted warmly by Johnathan Greenblatt, who met with Chief Rabbi Caper Funnye and Rabbi Baruch Yehudah a few months earlier. Once again, Mr. Greenblatt affirmed his commitment to recognizing the true diversity of the Jewish people. Our representatives had the honor of meeting Dr. Martin Luther King III, Reverend Al Sharpton, and Dr. Susannah Heschel among other distinguished guests at this unity Shabbat dinner.
The next morning, they attended a Shabbat service led by Rabbi Michael Singer, who reminded everyone that marching in this manner is a sacred act and a holy activity that turns prayers into action. As we converged on the Lincoln Memorial, we wrapped ourselves in our tallits and held signs with the words of the Torah: “Justice, Justice, you must pursue” Deut. 16:20 ( צֶדֶק צֶדֶק, תִּרְדֹּף )
The highlight of the day came with the powerful speeches that resonated with the spirit of unity and equality. Rabbi Hazzan Myers of the Tree of Life synagogue in Pittsburgh reminded them of the resilience of communities in the face of adversity. Congressman Hakeem Jeffries spoke of the importance of legislative change in the pursuit of justice. Dr. Jamal Bryant’s impassioned words stirred their souls, and Sandy Winegarden’s electrifying message brought crowds to their feet.
Through these speeches, they realized that Dr. Martin Luther King’s dream was not just a distant memory but a living aspiration. It was a dream that continued to evolve, adapt, and inspire generations to stand up against injustice and work towards a more equitable society.
As the sun set on Washington, D.C., that evening, they knew they represented the values and courage of our community. The thousands of people who attended this historic march represent the millions everywhere willing to work together to repair this world. They had witnessed the power of unity and the resilience of a dream. The words of Dr. Martin Luther King still echoed in the hearts of all who gathered that day, reminding them that the pursuit of equality is a journey worth taking, no matter the challenges they may face.